A SERIES of stings designed to name and shame pub landlords who sell alcohol to youngsters will take place this summer.

Under-18s will be sent into offlicences, bars and clubs at weekends to snare any outlets willing to sell them alcohol. Vendors who breach licensing laws could have their details made public on a Monday morning.

Councils across Merseyside backed the campaign to tackle alcohol-fuelled violence. It was announced by the government as Home Office crime figures yesterday revealed an 11% increase in violent crime.

Cllr Malcolm Kelly, chairman of Liverpool's licensing committee, said: "This proposal fits in very well with the new rules about licensing which come into force next year.

"But is should be supported with a package of measures which tackle the problem of drinking among everybody, not just children. That means doing something about reckless happy hours and other promotions."

Cllr George Davies, Wirral's cabinet member for cmunity safety, added: "I would certainly support the naming and shaming of these businesses. Underage drinking causes misery for decent residents in every community."

Intensive training will be provided for police and local authority officials to ensure they are informed of all powers available to tackle alcohol-related crime.

Sefton council's licensing chairwoman, Cllr Brenda Porter, said: "Anti-social behaviour is getting way out of hand, we have known this for years and I am delighted the government has now come on board."

Home Office minister Hazel Blears also confirmed that police and local authorities would use powers which allow them to close down premises for short periods.